U.S. patent application number 11/053085 was filed with the patent office on 2006-08-10 for liquid supply assembly.
This patent application is currently assigned to 3M Innovative Properties Company. Invention is credited to John I. JR. Escoto, Daniel E. Siltberg.
Application Number | 20060175433 11/053085 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36291779 |
Filed Date | 2006-08-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060175433 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Escoto; John I. JR. ; et
al. |
August 10, 2006 |
Liquid supply assembly
Abstract
A liquid supply assembly is disclosed. The liquid supply
assembly may be used in combination with a spraying device or spray
gun to apply liquid to a substrate. The liquid supply assembly is
particularly suitable for use in systems utilizing pressurized
liquid containers.
Inventors: |
Escoto; John I. JR.; (St.
Paul, MN) ; Siltberg; Daniel E.; (White Bear
Township, MN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY
PO BOX 33427
ST. PAUL
MN
55133-3427
US
|
Assignee: |
3M Innovative Properties
Company
|
Family ID: |
36291779 |
Appl. No.: |
11/053085 |
Filed: |
February 8, 2005 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
239/302 ;
239/345; 239/376; 239/377 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B05B 7/2481 20130101;
B05B 7/241 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
239/302 ;
239/345; 239/376; 239/377 |
International
Class: |
A62C 13/62 20060101
A62C013/62; B05B 7/30 20060101 B05B007/30; A01G 25/14 20060101
A01G025/14; A62C 13/66 20060101 A62C013/66 |
Claims
1. A liquid supply assembly comprising: a container; a lid having
one or more lid components capable of connecting to (i) a liquid
spraying device or (ii) an adapter capable of connecting to the
liquid spraying device, the one or more lid components being
positioned on an upper surface of the lid; a collapsible liner
capable of fitting within the container; wherein the container, the
lid, and the collapsible liner form a pressurizable assembly
capable of withstanding a container pressure of at least about 69.0
kiloPascals (kPa) (10 pounds per square inch (psi)).
2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the collapsible liner comprises
a collapsible liner component integrally attached to the container
so as to fit within the container.
3. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the container comprises: at
least one container side wall; a container bottom wall; a container
top end having a container opening therein; a first set of
mechanical features extending along the at least one container side
wall proximate the top end, said first set of mechanical features
being capable of engaging with a second set of mechanical features
on the lid, an optional shroud component or an optional collar; and
an air inlet within the at least one container side wall proximate
the bottom wall.
4. The assembly of claim 3, wherein each of the first set of
mechanical features and the second set of mechanical features
comprises a set of threads.
5. The assembly of claim 3, wherein the container further comprises
a plurality of air distribution fins extending along an upper
surface of the container bottom wall.
6. The assembly of claim 5, wherein the container further comprises
one or more pressure relief areas within the container bottom
wall.
7. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the liquid supply assembly
further comprises a shroud having a shroud opening therein, said
shroud opening being sized to enable the one or more lid components
to extend through the shroud opening.
8. The assembly of claim 7, wherein the shroud comprises: a first
shroud end, a second shroud end opposite the first shroud end, said
second shroud end having the shroud opening therein, an inner
shroud surface and an outer shroud surface both of which extend
from the first shroud end to the second shroud end, and a shroud
ledge extending along an outer periphery of the inner shroud
surface.
9. The assembly of claim 8, wherein the shroud further comprises a
second set of mechanical features extending along the inner or
outer shroud surface proximate the first end of the shroud, the
second set of mechanical features being capable of engaging with a
first set of mechanical features on the container.
10. The assembly of claim 8, further comprising a collar, said
collar comprising: a top end having a collar opening therein, a
bottom end, at least one collar side wall extending between the top
end and the bottom end, a collar rim extending along the top end
and protruding into the collar opening, and a second set of
mechanical features extending along the at least one collar side
wall, the second set of mechanical features being capable of
engaging with a first set of mechanical features on the
container.
11. A container suitable for use in a liquid supply assembly, the
container comprising: at least one container side wall; a container
bottom wall; a container top end having a container opening
therein; a first set of mechanical features extending along the at
least one container side wall proximate the top end, said first set
of mechanical features being capable of engaging with a second set
of mechanical features on a lid, an optional shroud component or an
optional collar of the liquid supply assembly; an air inlet within
the at least one container side wall proximate the container bottom
wall; and a plurality of air distribution fins extending along an
upper surface of the container bottom wall.
12. The container of claim 11, wherein the container bottom wall
further comprises one or more pressure relief areas within the
container bottom wall.
13. The container of claim 11, wherein one or more of the air
distribution fins extend upward from the container bottom wall
along at least a portion of the at least one container side wall
proximate the bottom wall.
14. The container of claim 11, further comprising a collapsible
liner component integrally attached to the container so as to fit
within the container.
15. A liquid supply assembly comprising: the container component of
claim 11; a lid having one or more lid components capable of
connecting to (i) a liquid spraying device or (ii) an adapter
capable of connecting to the liquid spraying device, the one or
more lid components being positioned on an upper surface of the
lid; an optional shroud component having a shroud opening therein,
said shroud opening being sized to enable the one or more lid
components to extend through the shroud opening; and an optional
collar capable of engaging with the container, wherein the
container, the lid, the optional shroud, and the optional collar
form a pressurizable assembly capable of withstanding a container
pressure of at least about 69.0 kiloPascals (kPa) (10 pounds per
square inch (psi)).
16. The assembly of claim 15, wherein the liquid supply assembly
comprises the optional shroud component, said shroud component
comprising: a first shroud end, a second shroud end opposite the
first shroud end, said second shroud end having the shroud opening
therein, an inner shroud surface and an outer shroud surface both
of which extend from the first shroud end to the second shroud end,
and a shroud ledge extending along an outer periphery of the inner
shroud surface.
17. The assembly of claim 16, wherein the shroud further comprises
a second set of mechanical features extending along the inner or
outer shroud surface proximate the first end of the shroud, the
second set of mechanical features being capable of engaging with
the first set of mechanical features on the container.
18. The assembly of claim 15, further comprising a collar, said
collar comprising: a top end having a collar opening therein, a
bottom end, at least one collar side wall extending between the top
end and the bottom end, a collar rim extending along the top end
and protruding into the collar opening, and a second set of
mechanical features extending along the at least one collar side
wall, the second set of mechanical features being capable of
connecting to the first set of mechanical features on the
container.
19. A liquid supply assembly comprising: a container having at
least one container side wall, a container bottom wall, a container
top end having a container opening therein, a first set of
mechanical features along the at least one container side wall
proximate the top end, an air inlet within the at least one
container side wall proximate the bottom wall, and a plurality of
air distribution fins extending along an upper surface of the
container bottom wall; a lid having a first end and a second end
opposite the first end, an upper surface and a lower surface both
of which extend from the first end to the second end, an opening
extending through a portion of the lid from the first end to the
second end, a lid rim extending along a periphery of the lid, and
one or more lid components capable of connecting to (i) a liquid
spraying device or (ii) an adapter capable of connecting to the
liquid spraying device, the one or more lid components being
positioned on the upper surface of the lid; an optional shroud
having a first shroud end, a second shroud end opposite the first
shroud end, an upper shroud surface and a lower shroud surface both
of which extend from the first shroud end to the second shroud end,
a shroud opening in the second shroud end, said shroud opening
being sized to enable the one or more lid components to extend
through the shroud opening, and a shroud ledge extending along an
outer periphery of the shroud; and an optional collar capable of
engaging with the container, said collar comprising a top end
having a collar opening therein, a bottom end, at least one collar
side wall extending between the top end and the bottom end, a
collar rim extending along the top end and protruding into the
collar opening, and a second set of mechanical features along the
at least one collar side wall, the second set of mechanical
features being capable of engaging with the first set of mechanical
features on the container; wherein the container, the lid, the
optional shroud, and the optional collar form a pressurizable
assembly capable of withstanding a container pressure of at least
about 69.0 kiloPascals (kPa) (10 pounds per square inch (psi)).
20. The assembly of claim 19, further comprising a separate
collapsible liner capable of fitting within the container.
21. The assembly of claim 19, wherein the container comprises a
collapsible liner component integrally attached to the container so
as to fit within the container.
22. The assembly of claim 19, wherein the liquid supply assembly
comprises the optional shroud.
23. The assembly of claim 22, wherein the shroud further comprises
a second set of mechanical features extending along the first end
of the shroud, the second set of mechanical features being capable
of engaging with the first set of mechanical features on the
container.
24. The assembly of claim 22, further comprising the optional
collar.
25. The assembly of claim 19, further comprising a gasket
positioned along the first end of the lid along a lower surface of
the lid rim, wherein the gasket is capable of providing a seal
between the lid and the container.
26. A spraying device comprising the assembly of claim 19.
27. The spraying device of claim 26, further comprising an air
pressure regulator for regulating a container pressure.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to liquid supply components
and assemblies. The liquid supply components and assemblies are
particularly suitable in pressurizable liquid supply assemblies for
use with liquid (e.g., paint) spraying devices or spray guns.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Various liquid supply assemblies have been described for use
with liquid (e.g., paint) spraying devices or spray guns, including
those described in International Publication Number WO 98/32539
(Joseph et al.) published on Jul. 30, 1998, U.S. Pat. No. 6,536,687
(Navis et al.), U.S. Pat. No. 6,588,681 (Rothrum et al.), the
content of all of which is incorporated herein by reference. The
supply assemblies include a number of components such as a mixing
cup or container, a collapsible liner, a lid, an adapter for
attaching a portion of the lid to a component of a spraying device,
and a filter element.
[0003] While the prior art discloses various liquid supply
assemblies for use in spray devices, many of the liquid supply
assemblies are only suitable for relatively low pressure systems,
namely, systems using a container pressure of less than about 69.0
kilopascals (kPa) (10 pounds per square inch (psi)). Such low
pressure systems have shortcomings including, but not limited to,
difficulty spraying highly viscous fluids such as some paints,
adhesives, and the like.
[0004] There remains a need in the art for liquid supply components
and assemblies suitable for use in pressurizable liquid supply
assemblies for high pressure applications, namely, systems using a
container pressure of greater than about 69.0 kPa (10 psi).
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] The present invention is directed to liquid supply
assemblies for spraying devices and specific components thereof.
The liquid supply assemblies comprise a number of components that
enable high pressure spray applications using container pressures
above about 69.0 kPa (10 psi).
[0006] The liquid supply assemblies of the present invention
provide flexibility to a user with regard to types of fluids to
apply via a spray device. For example, fluids having a higher
viscosity may be sprayed using the liquid supply assemblies of the
present invention. Further, various components of the liquid supply
assemblies of the present invention may be used as components in
existing liquid supply assemblies when a higher pressure system is
desired.
[0007] Accordingly, the present invention is directed to liquid
supply assemblies capable of withstanding container pressures
greater than about 69.0 kPa (10 psi). In one exemplary embodiment,
the liquid supply assembly comprises (a) a container; (b) a lid
having one or more lid components capable of connecting to (i) a
liquid spraying device or (ii) an adapter capable of connecting to
the liquid spraying device, the one or more lid components being
positioned on an upper surface of the lid; (c) and a collapsible
liner capable of fitting within the container; wherein the
container, the lid, and the collapsible liner form a pressurizable
assembly capable of withstanding a container pressure of at least
about 69.0 kiloPascals (kPa) (10 pounds per square inch (psi)). The
collapsible liner may comprise a separate assembly component or may
comprise a container component integrally attached to the
container. The exemplary liquid supply assembly is capable of being
connected to a liquid spraying device, and withstanding a container
pressure above about 69.0 kPa (10 psi), and in some embodiments,
above about 137.9 kPa (20 psi).
[0008] The present invention is further directed to specific
components that may be used in a liquid supply assembly. In one
exemplary embodiment, the present invention is directed to a
container component suitable for use in a liquid supply assembly,
wherein the container component comprises at least one container
side wall; a container bottom wall; a container top end having a
container opening therein; a first set of mechanical features
extending along the at least one container side wall proximate the
top end, said first set of mechanical features being capable of
engaging with a second set of mechanical features on a lid, an
optional shroud component or an optional collar of the liquid
supply assembly; an air inlet within the at least one container
side wall proximate the container bottom wall; and a plurality of
air distribution fins extending along an upper surface of the
container bottom wall. The exemplary container may further comprise
one or more pressure relief areas within the container bottom wall.
In addition, one or more of the air distribution fins may extend
upward from the container bottom wall along at least a portion of
the at least one container side wall proximate the bottom wall.
[0009] The specific components of the present invention may be used
in liquid supply assemblies of the present invention, as well as
known liquid supply assemblies. In one exemplary embodiment of the
present invention, a liquid supply assembly comprises (a) a
container having at least one container side wall, a container
bottom wall, a container top end having a container opening
therein, a first set of mechanical features along the at least one
container side wall proximate the top end, an air inlet within the
at least one container side wall proximate the bottom wall, and a
plurality of air distribution fins extending along an upper surface
of the container bottom wall; (b) a lid having a first end and a
second end opposite the first end, an upper surface and a lower
surface both of which extend from the first end to the second end,
an opening extending through a portion of the lid from the first
end to the second end, a lid rim extending along a periphery of the
lid, and one or more lid components capable of connecting to (i) a
liquid spraying device or (ii) an adapter capable of connecting to
the liquid spraying device, the one or more lid components being
positioned on the upper surface of the lid; (c) an optional shroud
having a first shroud end, a second shroud end opposite the first
shroud end, an upper shroud surface and a lower shroud surface both
of which extend from the first shroud end to the second shroud end,
a shroud opening in the second shroud end, said shroud opening
being sized to enable the one or more lid components to extend
through the shroud opening, and a shroud ledge extending along an
outer periphery of the shroud; and (d) an optional collar capable
of engaging with the container, said collar comprising a top end
having a collar opening therein, a bottom end, at least one collar
side wall extending between the top end and the bottom end, a
collar rim extending along the top end and protruding into the
collar opening, and a second set of mechanical features along the
at least one collar side wall, the second set of mechanical
features being capable of engaging with the first set of mechanical
features on the container; wherein the container, the lid, the
optional shroud, and the optional collar form a pressurizable
assembly capable of withstanding a container pressure of at least
about 69.0 kPa (10 psi).
[0010] The present invention is also directed to method of making
and using liquid supply assemblies suitable for use on a liquid
spraying device. In one exemplary embodiment, the method of making
a liquid supply assembly comprises the steps of (a) forming a
container, wherein the container comprises (i) at least one
container side wall, (ii) a container bottom wall, (iii) a
container top end having a container opening therein, (iv) a first
set of threads extending along the at least one container side wall
proximate the top end, (v) an air inlet within the at least one
container side wall proximate the bottom end, and (vi) a plurality
of air distribution fins extending along an upper surface of the
container bottom end. The exemplary method of making a liquid
supply assembly may further comprise one or more additional
steps.
[0011] In a further exemplary embodiment, the method of making a
liquid supply assembly comprises the step of: (a) providing a lid
component having one or more lid components capable of connecting
to (i) a liquid spraying device or (ii) an adapter capable of
connecting to the liquid spraying device, the one or more lid
components being positioned on an upper surface of the lid
component; (b) providing a shroud component having a shape
complementary to the lid component such that the one or more lid
components extend through an opening in the shroud component; (c)
providing a container; (d) providing a collapsible liner capable of
fitting within the container and engaging with the lid component;
and (e) assembling the container, the liner, the lid component, the
shroud component, and an optional collar component with one another
to form a pressurizable system.
[0012] The present invention is even further directed to spraying
devices comprising any of the liquid supply assemblies or specific
components that may be used in a liquid supply assembly.
[0013] These and other features and advantages of the present
invention will become apparent after a review of the following
detailed description of the disclosed embodiments and the appended
claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] The present invention may be more completely understood in
consideration of the following detailed description of various
embodiments of the invention in connection with the accompanying
drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts in
the several views, and wherein:
[0015] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary
liquid supply assembly according to the present invention;
[0016] FIG. 2 is an exploded side view of the exemplary container
in the exemplary liquid supply assembly shown in FIG. 1;
[0017] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary container
component of FIG. 2 along line 3-3 shown in FIG. 2;
[0018] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a bottom wall of
exemplary container component of FIG. 2 shown along line 4-4 shown
in FIG. 3;
[0019] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of another exemplary
liquid supply assembly according to the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of another exemplary
liquid supply assembly according to the present invention;
[0021] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an exemplary liquid supply
assembly of the present invention attached to a spraying device or
spray gun;
[0022] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another exemplary liquid
supply assembly of the present invention attached to a spraying
device or spray gun; and
[0023] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary
adapter for connecting a liquid supply assembly according to the
present invention to a spraying device or spray gun.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0024] To promote an understanding of the principles of the present
invention, descriptions of specific embodiments of the invention
follow and specific language is used to describe the specific
embodiments. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation
of the scope of the present invention is intended by the use of
specific language. Alterations, further modifications, and such
further applications of the principles of the present invention
discussed are contemplated as would normally occur to one
ordinarily skilled in the art to which the invention pertains.
[0025] The present invention is directed to liquid supply
assemblies for spraying devices, as well as individual components
within the liquid supply assemblies. In an embodiment, individual
components for use in a pressurized liquid supply assembly are
disclosed, wherein the individual components comprise (i) a
container capable of withstanding a relatively high air pressure
(e.g., greater than about 69.0 kPa (10 psi), and in some cases as
much or greater than about 137.9 kPa (20 psi)), (ii) a lid
component of the assembly, (iii) an optional shroud that may be
used to reinforce the lid component of the assembly, and (iv) an
optional collar for connecting the lid component and the optional
shroud to the container. The individual components of the present
invention may be used in a variety of liquid supply assemblies,
including, but not limited to, those described herein, as well as
those disclosed in International Publication Number WO 98/32539
(Joseph et al.), U.S. Pat. No. 6,536,687 (Navis et al.), and U.S.
Pat. No. 6,588,681 (Rothrum et al.).
[0026] An exemplary liquid supply assembly of the present invention
is provided in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 1, exemplary liquid supply
assembly 10 comprises lid component 11, container 12, liner 13,
shroud 60, and collar 20. In this embodiment, liner 13 fits inside
container 12 such that liner rim 14 of liner 13 rests on upper
container surface 15 of container 12. Lower portion 16 of lid
component 11 extends snugly into liner 13 until a lower surface of
lid rim 17 comes into contacts with liner rim 14. Shroud 60 fits
over lid component 11 so that a lower surface of shroud rim 61
comes into contacts with an upper surface of lid rim 17. Shroud
opening 62 enables portions of lid component 11 (described below)
to extend through shroud 60 so that lid component 11 can connect to
a spraying device (not shown) or an adapter for connecting to a
spraying device (not shown). Collar 20 is used to secure shroud 60
and lid component 11 in place by engaging collar threads 19
positioned on an inner surface of collar 20 with container threads
21 positioned on an outer surface of container 12 below upper
container surface 15. When screwed tightly, a lower surface of
upper rim 18 of collar 20 is in contact with an upper surface of
shroud rim 61.
[0027] As shown in FIG. 1, exemplary liquid supply assembly 10 of
the present invention may comprise a number of components. A
description of individual components and methods of using
individual components alone or in combination is provided
below.
I. Liquid Supply Assembly Components
[0028] The liquid supply assemblies disclosed herein may comprise
one of more of the following components.
[0029] A. Container
[0030] The liquid supply assemblies disclosed herein comprise a
container, such as exemplary container 12 of exemplary liquid
supply assembly 10. In an embodiment, the container typically has
at least one container side wall, a container bottom end, a
container top end having a container opening therein, and a first
set of threads extending along the at least one container side
wall. The container further comprises an air inlet along a surface
of the container. The air inlet allows air to enter the container
from an air source in order to pressurize the container
interior.
[0031] As shown in FIG. 1, exemplary container 12 comprises a
generally cylindrical side wall 48 having top and bottom ends 41
and 42, a bottom wall 44 extending across and closing bottom end 42
of side wall 48, and an upper surface 15 extending around top end
41 of side wall 48. Top end 41 of side wall 48 defines an opening
into container 12. Side wall 48 may bear indicia 25, for example,
indicating the levels to which one or more liquids should be
sequentially poured into liner 13 positioned within container 12 to
provide a predetermined ratio between one or more liquids. In an
embodiment, side wall 48 is sufficiently transparent to enable
viewing of the liquid level in liner 13 positioned within container
12 through side wall 48, which assists a person in adding liquids
to the desired levels indicated by indicia 25. Side wall 48 may
also bear other types of indicia, such as trademarks, brand names
and the like.
[0032] Exemplary container 12 further comprises air inlet 30 in
side wall 48 (see FIG. 2). Surrounding air inlet 30 and extending
outward from a portion of side wall 48 is air inlet fitting 31,
suitable for connecting to an air hose (not shown). Typically, air
inlet fitting 31 is integrally connected to container 12. For
example, in one desired embodiment, air inlet fitting 31 is an
integrally connected molded component of container 12. FIG. 2
provides an exploded side view of exemplary container 12 and some
of its features.
[0033] As shown in FIG. 2, exemplary container 12 comprises air
inlet 30 within side wall 48, and air inlet fitting 31 extending
outward from side wall 48. Air inlet fitting 31 comprises a bore 32
extending through air inlet fitting 31. Further, air inlet fitting
31 comprises fitting end 33 suitable for connecting to an air hose
(not shown). Exemplary container 12 also comprises hose retaining
clip 45 extending from side wall 48. Hose retaining clip 45 may be
used to control movement of an air hose (not shown) connected to
air inlet fitting 31 and extending to an air source.
[0034] The container may further comprise one or more additional
features such as those shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 3 provides a
cross-sectional view of exemplary container 12 along line 3-3 shown
in FIG. 2. In this exemplary embodiment, container 12 further
comprises a plurality of air distribution fins 34 along an upper
surface 35 of bottom wall 44. Air distribution fins 34 provide
improved air flow and distribution along upper surface 35 of bottom
wall 44. The resulting air flow and distribution within container
12 causes a more uniform and distributed force pushing on a lower
surface of a collapsible liner positioned within container 12. The
uniform and distributed force causes the liner to collapse more
evenly as liquid exits the collapsible liner.
[0035] The number, size, shape and configuration of air
distribution fins 34 along upper surface 35 of bottom wall 44 may
vary depending on a number of factors including, but not limited
to, the size of the container, the configuration of the liner, the
air pressure within the container, and the type of liquid to be
sprayed. As shown in FIG. 3, air distribution fins 34 extend
radially from air inlet 30, and are distributed across upper
surface 35. In an embodiment, each of air distribution fins 34 has
a width ranging from about 1.0 mm (0.04 in) to about 5.0 mm (0.2
in), a height ranging from about 5.0 mm (0.2 in) to about 20.0 mm
(0.8 in), and a length ranging from about 10.0 mm (0.4 in) to a
length equal to or greater than the diameter of the container,
typically up to about 75 mm (3.0 in).
[0036] Each of the air distribution fins 34 along upper surface 35
of bottom wall 44 may have a similar shape or may have a shape that
varies from one fin to another. Typically, each of the air
distribution fins 34 has a similar cross-sectional shape. The
cross-sectional shape may be relatively simple, such as a
rectangular cross-sectional shape, having two cross-sectional
dimensions, namely a height and a width, wherein each of the height
and the width remains substantially constant along a length of a
given air distribution fin. Alternatively, the cross-sectional
shape may be more complex. For example, each of the air
distribution fins 34 may have a cross-sectional shape having a
height and a width, wherein (i) the height and/or the width changes
along a length of a given air distribution fin, (ii) the width
changes along the height of a given air distribution fin, or both
(i) and (ii). In one exemplary embodiment, one or more of the air
distribution fins 34 have a pillar cross-sectional shape, wherein
the cross-sectional width of the fin is greater at the base of the
fin and at a top end of the fin than in a central portion of the
fin.
[0037] Exemplary container 12 may further comprise one or more rest
members 340 positioned along ledge 341 as shown in FIG. 3. Rest
members 340 provide support for an optional indicating sheet (not
shown) that may be positioned within container 12 to assist a user
when filling container 12 with one or more liquids (described
below). Like air distribution fins 34 described above, the number,
size, shape and configuration of rest members 340 along ledge 341
may vary. Typically, rest members 340 have a height such that an
upper surface of rest members 340 is positioned substantially
within a horizontal plane containing an upper surface of one or
more of air distribution fins 34.
[0038] In addition, exemplary container 12 may further comprise one
or more pressure relief areas 36 within upper surface 35 of bottom
wall 44. Pressure relief areas 36 provide an additional safety
feature to the liquid supply assembly of the present invention.
When the pressure within container 12 exceeds a desired level,
pressure relief areas 36 break open to the atmosphere, causing the
pressure within container 12 to drop immediately. By having
pressure relief areas 36 within upper surface 35 of bottom wall 44,
any air stream leaving container 12 will be directed downward away
from a collapsible liner within container 12, and away from a
person using the liquid supply assembly.
[0039] Pressure relief areas 36 may comprise any container feature
that vents container 12 when the container pressure within
container 12 exceeds a desired level. Suitable pressure relief
features include, but are not limited to, deliberately weakened
areas within upper surface 35 of bottom wall 44 (e.g., a thinner
wall thickness), a pop-off valve, and a plug that pops out of
container 12 at a threshold pressure level. In one embodiment of
the present invention, pressure relief areas 36 comprise one or
more deliberately weakened areas having a relatively thin wall
thickness compared to the wall thickness of bottom wall 44. This
embodiment is shown in FIG. 4.
[0040] FIG. 4 provides a cross-sectional view of upper surface 35
of bottom wall 44 along line 4-4 shown in FIG. 3. As shown in FIG.
4, pressure relief areas 36 have a wall thickness less than other
areas 37 within upper surface 35 of bottom wall 44. For example,
the wall thickness in pressure relief areas 36 may be about 2.5 mm
(0.10 in) while the wall thickness in other areas 37 may be about
5.0 mm (0.20 in).
[0041] Container 12 may be formed from a plastic material, for
example, polyethylene, polypropylene or polyamide (e.g., nylon),
and may be transparent, translucent (as shown in FIG. 1) or opaque,
and of any suitable size. For use with a paint spray gun,
containers typically have a capacity of about 150, 500 or 1000 ml,
although other sizes are possible.
[0042] Container 12 has a wall thickness suitable for higher
pressure systems. Typically, each wall (e.g., side wall 48, bottom
wall 44) has a wall thickness of at least 3.0 mm (0.12 in) in order
to provide sufficient structural strength for higher pressure
systems.
[0043] As shown in FIG. 1, exemplary container 12 comprises
container threads 21 positioned on an outer surface of container 12
below upper container surface 15. Container threads 21 are
positioned to be engaged with corresponding threads on at least one
of the following components: a lid component, a shroud component,
and a collar component (all of which are described below). It
should be noted that although exemplary container 12 comprises
container threads 21 positioned on an outer surface of container 12
below upper container surface 15, container threads 21 may
alternatively located on an inner side wall surface 221 below upper
container surface 15 (see, for example, exemplary container 512 in
FIG. 5 with container threads 521 on inner surface 518 of exemplary
container 512). In this alternative embodiment, corresponding
threads on at least one of the lid component, the shroud component,
or the collar component engage with the container threads such that
side wall 13B of liner 13 (described below) is positioned between
the engaged set of threads (see, for example, exemplary liquid
supply system 500 in FIG. 5).
[0044] It should be further noted that any other mechanical
features may be used in place of exemplary container threads 21
shown in FIG. 1 (or exemplary container threads 521 shown in FIG.
5) to engage container 12 with at least one of the lid component,
the shroud component, and the collar component. Suitable mechanical
features that may be used instead of threads include, but are not
limited to, cams, lugs, latches, any locking mechanism, etc.
[0045] B. Liner
[0046] The liquid supply assemblies disclosed herein may further
comprise a separate liner, such as liner 13 of exemplary liquid
supply assembly 10. The liner desirably has at least one liner side
wall, a liner bottom end, a liner top end having a liner opening
therein, and a liner rim extending along and protruding from the
liner top end. The liner functions as a reservoir capable of
containing one or more liquids.
[0047] As shown in FIG. 1, exemplary liner 13 has an outer shape
similar to the interior of container 12 and has a liner rim 14 at
the open end, which is capable of resting on upper container
surface 15. Liner 13 is desirably self-supporting and collapsible.
In one exemplary embodiment, liner 13 has a comparatively rigid
base 13A and comparatively thin side walls 13B so that, when liner
13 collapses, liner 13 collapses in the longitudinal direction by
virtue of the side walls collapsing rather than the base.
[0048] While the liner may be formed of any suitable material, in
an embodiment, liner 13 comprises a polymeric material, such as
polypropylene or polyethylene, and is formed from a molding process
such as a thermoforming process. In one embodiment of the present
invention, liner 13 comprises thermoformed low density
polyethylene.
[0049] Although exemplary liner 13 is shown as a separate component
in FIG. 1, in a further exemplary embodiment of the present
invention, liner 13 is integrally connected to container 12 (see,
for example, exemplary liquid supply system 500 in FIG. 5). In this
embodiment, liner 13 may be attached to container 12 such that
liner rim 14 forms a permanent bond with upper container surface 15
of container 12. In other embodiments, liner rim 14 and/or a
portion of side walls 13B are integrally joined to upper container
surface 15 and/or inner side wall surface 221 of container 12.
[0050] When liner 13 is attached to container 12 to form an
integral component of container 12, liner 13 may be attached to
container 12 using any suitable method including, but not limited
to, ultrasonic welding, any thermal bonding technique (e.g., heat
and/or pressure applied to melt a portion of the liner, the
container, or both), adhesive bonding, etc. In one exemplary
embodiment of the present invention, the liner is attached to the
container using an ultrasonic welding process.
[0051] C. Lid Component
[0052] The liquid supply assemblies of the present invention
further comprise a lid component, such as exemplary lid component
11 of exemplary liquid supply assembly 10. The lid component
typically comprises a filter component (not shown) either
permanently or temporarily attached to a lower surface of the lid
component (i.e., facing liner 13 shown in FIG. 1). Lid 11 may be
formed utilizing any suitable process, and, in an embodiment,
comprises an injection molded part formed from a plastic material
such as polypropylene. In an embodiment, lid 11 is transparent to
enable viewing of an inner surface of the lid component and any
component (e.g., filter component) attached to the inner
surface.
[0053] Lid 11 may be formed to have any desired shape. Suitable
shapes include, but are not limited to, a conical shape, a
cylindrical shape, a tubular shape having a rectangular
cross-sectional area, or a tubular shape having a square
cross-sectional area. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, lid 11
has a conical shape with a first end and a second end opposite the
first end, wherein the second end has a second end cross-sectional
area that is smaller than a first end cross-sectional area.
[0054] As shown in FIG. 1, the lid component may further comprise
one or more components capable of connecting to (i) a liquid
spraying device or (ii) an adapter capable of connecting to the
liquid spraying device, wherein the one or more components are
positioned on an outer surface and at a second end of the lid
component. For example, as shown in exemplary lid component 11, the
lid component may comprise axially-spaced radially outwardly
projecting sealing rings 43 along the outer surface of cylindrical
portion 24 positioned on boss 47, and opposed inwardly projecting
lips 52 on the distal ends of projecting hook members 49, which are
equally spaced from and on either side of cylindrical portion 24
extending from outer surface 22 of exemplary lid component 11.
[0055] The above-described component features may be used to attach
the lid component to a spraying device as described in U.S. Pat.
No. 6,536,687 (Navis et al.), the subject matter of which is
incorporated herein in its entirety by reference. (See, in
particular, FIGS. 1-3 and the accompanying disclosure for a
description of an exemplary system of attaching the lid component
of the present invention to a spraying device.)
[0056] D. Shroud Component
[0057] The liquid supply assemblies of the present invention may
further comprise a shroud component, such as exemplary shroud
component 60 of exemplary liquid supply assembly 10. The shroud
component of the present invention provides support to the lid
component by extending over and restricting expansion of the lid
component when exposed to high pressure. Like the above-described
lid component, the shroud component may comprise an injection
molded part formed from a plastic material such as polypropylene or
polyamide. In one embodiment, shroud component 60 can be
transparent to enable viewing of the lid component and the contents
within the liquid supply assembly.
[0058] Shroud component 60 may be formed to have any desired shape
including, but not limited to, the above-described shapes of the
lid component. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, shroud
component 60 has a conical shape with a first end 64 and a second
end 63 opposite first end 64, wherein the second end 63 has a
second end cross-sectional area that is smaller than a first end
cross-sectional area.
[0059] In one exemplary embodiment of the present invention (shown
in FIG. 1), shroud component 60 has a shape complementary to the
shape of lid component 11. In other words, in this embodiment,
shroud component 60 has a shape such that a lower surface of shroud
component 60 extends along and covers a substantial portion of
outer surface 22 of lid component 11. Further, in this embodiment,
shroud component 60 has a shape such that a lower surface of shroud
rim 61 extends along and covers a substantial portion of an upper
surface of lid rim 17.
[0060] As shown in FIG. 1, shroud component 60 may further comprise
one or more components positioned along an outer surface at second
end 63 of shroud component 60. For example, as shown in exemplary
shroud component 60, shroud component 60 may comprise opposed
inwardly projecting lips 152 on the distal ends of projecting hook
members 149 (see also, FIG. 5), which are equally spaced from and
on either side of shroud opening 62. Exemplary shroud component 60
also comprises opposed inwardly projecting members 150 (see also,
FIG. 5), which are equally spaced from and on either side of shroud
opening 62. Projecting members 150 rest on outer surfaces of
projecting hook members 49 of exemplary lid component 11 when
exemplary shroud component 60 is positioned on and over exemplary
lid component 11.
[0061] In some embodiments of the present invention, opposed
inwardly projecting lips 152 and projecting hook members 149 of
exemplary shroud component 60 may be used alone or in combination
with one or more lid components (e.g., axially-spaced radially
outwardly projecting sealing rings 43, cylindrical portion 24, boss
47, opposed inwardly projecting lips 52, and projecting hook
members 49) to engage with (i) a liquid spraying device or (ii) an
adapter capable of connecting to the liquid spraying device.
[0062] As shown in FIG. 1, shroud component 60 may further comprise
one or more collar engaging members 65 positioned along shroud rim
61. Collar engaging members 65 may be used to securely engage upper
rim 18 of collar 20 (described below) when collar 20 is used in the
liquid supply assembly. Each of collar engaging members 65 may
comprise outwardly projecting lips 66 on the distal ends of collar
engaging members 65 to engage upper rim 18 of collar 20.
[0063] In a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention
as shown in FIG. 5, shroud component 60 is not necessary due to an
alternative design of exemplary lid component 511. In this
embodiment, exemplary liquid supply assembly 500 comprises lid
component 511 having a wall thickness suitable for higher pressure
systems. For example, lid component 511 may have a wall thickness
of at least 3.0 mm (0.12 in) in order to provide sufficient
structural strength for higher pressure systems. Further, lid
component 511 comprises a second set of threads 501 extending along
a lower, outer surface 502 of lid component 511. Second set of
threads 501 are capable of engaging with a first set of threads 521
on an inner surface of container 512.
[0064] Exemplary lid component 511 further comprises one or more
components capable of connecting to (i) a liquid spraying device or
(ii) an adapter capable of connecting to the liquid spraying device
as described above with reference to exemplary lid component 11. In
particular, exemplary lid component 511 comprises axially-spaced
radially outwardly projecting sealing rings 543 along the outer
surface of cylindrical portion 524 positioned on boss 547, a first
pair of opposed inwardly projecting lips 552 on the distal ends of
projecting hook members 549, and a second pair of opposed inwardly
projecting lips 752 on the distal ends of projecting hook members
749, wherein both pairs of projecting hook members are equally
spaced from and on either side of cylindrical portion 524 extending
from outer surface 522 of exemplary lid component 511.
[0065] As shown in FIG. 5, exemplary liquid supply assembly 500
comprises lid component 511 and container 512. In this exemplary
embodiment, container 512 comprises collapsible liner component
513. Side wall 513B of collapsible liner component 513 can be seen
positioned within side wall 548 proximate top end 541. As discussed
above, collapsible liner component 513 may be connected to
container 512 via any method, such as an ultrasonic bonding method.
Container 512 further comprises bottom wall 544 extending across
and closing bottom end 542 of side wall 548, indicia 525, an air
inlet (not shown) in side wall 548, air inlet fitting 531 suitable
for connecting to an air hose (not shown) and hose retaining clip
545 extending from side wall 548.
[0066] In this exemplary embodiment, second set of threads 501 of
lid component 511 engages with first set of threads 521 (shown
through side wall 513B of collapsible liner component 513 in FIG.
5) on an inner surface of container 512. Side wall 513B of
collapsible liner component 513 is pinched between second set of
threads 501 and first set of threads 521 as lid component 511 is
engaged with container 512. Desirably, lid component 511 is engaged
with container 512 so that a lower surface of lid rim 517 comes
into contact with liner rim 514 of collapsible liner component
513.
[0067] As discussed above, it should be noted that lid component
511 could have an alternative design wherein second set of threads
501 are positioned on an inner surface of lid component 511 so as
to engage with a container similar to container 12 shown in FIGS.
1-2. Further, it should be noted that other mechanical features may
be used in place of the exemplary threads to engage lid component
511 to container 512 (or container 12 shown in FIGS. 1-2).
[0068] E. Collar
[0069] The liquid supply assemblies of the present invention may
further comprise a collar, such as collar 20 of exemplary liquid
supply assembly 10. When present, the collar has a top end having a
collar opening therein, a bottom end, and at least one collar side
wall extending between the top end and the bottom end, a collar rim
extending along the top end and protruding into the collar opening,
and a second set of threads extending along the at least one collar
side wall, wherein the second set of threads is capable of engaging
with a first set of threads on the container (described above).
[0070] As shown in FIG. 1 and as discussed above, exemplary collar
20 comprises upper rim 18 and collar threads 19 positioned on an
inner surface of collar 20. Upper rim 18 and collar threads 19
engage with container threads 21 to secure shroud component 60, lid
component 11 and liner 13 in exemplary liquid supply assembly 10.
As discussed above, upper rim 18 engages with collar engaging
members 65 of shroud 60, when present, to securely connect collar
20 to shroud 60. As collar 20 is forced onto shroud 60, collar
engaging members 65 are deflected inward until upper rim 18 passes
outwardly projecting lips 66 on collar engaging members 65. Once
upper rim 18 passes outwardly projecting lips 66, collar 20 is
securely connected to shroud 60 such that a portion of outwardly
projecting lips 66 on collar engaging members 65 extend over a
portion of upper rim 18 of collar 20.
[0071] Collar 20 may be constructed of any suitable material, and,
in exemplary embodiments, may be formed from a molded plastic
component, or may be a machined metal (for example, aluminum)
component. In one embodiment of the present invention, collar 20 is
a molded plastic component comprising glass fiber reinforced
nylon.
[0072] In further exemplary embodiments of the present invention as
shown in FIGS. 5-6, collar 20 is not necessary due to an
alternative design of either lid component 11 or shroud component
600. In one exemplary embodiment, the shroud component comprises a
second set of threads extending along an inner surface of the
shroud component proximate a first end of the shroud component. The
second set of threads is capable of engaging with a first set of
threads on the container (described above).
[0073] As shown in FIG. 6, exemplary liquid supply and filter
assembly 100 comprises shroud component 600, lid 11, liner 13 and
container 12. Shroud component 600 comprises inner threads 601
positioned along an inner surface 602 of first end 603 opposite
second end 604 having opening 620 therein. Inner threads 601 engage
with container threads 21 positioned on side wall 48 at top end 41
of container 12 to secure lid 11 and liner 13 in place between
shroud component 600 and container 12.
[0074] As discussed above, it is desirable for a lower surface 605
of shroud component 600 to extend along and cover a substantial
portion of outer surface 22 of lid component 11. Further, in this
embodiment, it is desirable for shroud component 600 to have a
ledge 606 extending along lower surface 605 and having a ledge
surface extending substantially horizontal such that the ledge
surface of ledge 606 comes into contact with and covers a
substantial portion of an upper surface of lid rim 17 when shroud
component 600 is positioned over lid component 11.
[0075] Although shroud component 600 comprises threads 601
positioned along an inner surface 602 of shroud component 600, as
noted above, shroud component 600 could have an alternative design
wherein threads 601 are positioned on an outer surface of shroud
component 600 so as to engage with a container similar to container
512 shown in FIG. 5. Further, as noted above, alternative
mechanical features may be used in place of exemplary threads 601
to engage container 12 (or container 512 shown in FIG. 5).
[0076] F. Additional Optional Components
[0077] The liquid supply assemblies of the present invention may
further comprise one or more additional, optional components.
Suitable optional components include, but are not limited to, a
filter element that can be permanently or temporarily attached to
the lid component, a gasket that can be positioned between the lid
component and the liner (or liner component of the container), an
indicating sheet having indicia thereon to assist a user when
introducing one or more liquids into the collapsible liner, and an
adapter for connecting the lid component to a spraying device
positioned between the lid component and the spraying device.
[0078] In one embodiment of the present invention, a gasket is
positioned between the lid component and the liner (or liner
component of the container) in order to provide a better seal
between the lid component and the liner (or liner component of the
container). For example, a gasket may be positioned along lower
portion 16 of lid component 11 along a lower surface of lid rim 17.
The gasket provides a better seal between a lower surface of lid
rim 17 and liner rim 14 of liner 13. In this embodiment, the liquid
supply assembly may withstand a container pressure of at least
about 137.9 kPa (20 psi), and in some cases greater than 137.9 kPa
(20 psi).
[0079] Suitable gaskets for use in the present invention include,
but are not limited to, O-rings and rubber bands. In one embodiment
of the present invention, an O-ring is positioned between the lid
component and the liner of the liquid supply assembly in order to
provide a better seal between the lid component and the liner.
II. Methods of Making Liquid Supply Assemblies
[0080] The present invention is also directed to methods of making
liquid supply assemblies. In one exemplary embodiment, the method
of making a liquid supply assembly comprises the step of (a)
forming a container, wherein the container comprises (i) at least
one container side wall, (ii) a container bottom end, (iii) a
container top end having a container opening therein, (iv) a first
set of threads extending along the at least one container side wall
proximate the top end, (v) an air inlet within the at least one
container side wall proximate the bottom end, and (vi) a plurality
of air distribution fins extending along an upper surface of the
container bottom end. The exemplary method of making a liquid
supply assembly may further comprise one or more of the following
steps: (b) providing one or more pressure relief areas within the
container bottom end during or after the container forming step;
(c) providing a lid component; (d) forming an optional shroud
component having a shape complementary to the lid component; (e)
providing a collapsible liner capable of fitting within the
container; (f) integrally attaching a collapsible liner component
to the container; and (g) assembling the container, the liner (when
present), the lid component, the optional shroud component, and an
optional collar component with one another to form a pressurizable
system.
[0081] In another exemplary embodiment, the method of making a
liquid supply assembly comprises the step of: (a) providing a lid
component having one or more lid components capable of connecting
to (i) a liquid spraying device or (ii) an adapter capable of
connecting to the liquid spraying device, the one or more lid
components being positioned on an upper surface of the lid
component; (b) optionally providing a shroud component having a
shape complementary to the lid component such that the one or more
lid components extend through an opening in the shroud component;
(c) providing a container; (d) providing a collapsible liner or
collapsible liner component capable of fitting within the container
and engaging with the lid component; and (e) assembling the
container, the liner or collapsible liner component, the lid
component, the optional shroud component, and an optional collar
component with one another to form a pressurizable system capable
of withstanding a container pressure of at least about 69.0 kPa (10
psi).
[0082] In either of the exemplary methods described above, the
method may further comprise one or more steps of: (a) forming a
container having an integrally attached collapsible liner
component; (b) forming a lid component having a wall thickness such
that the lid component in combination with the container can
withstand a container pressure of at least about 69.0 kPa (10 psi)
(at least about 103.4 kPa (15 psi), at least about 137.9 kPa (20
psi), at least about 172.4 kPa (25 psi), at least about 206.8 kPa
(30 psi)); (c) forming a container having an internal or external
set of threads (or other mechanical feature) thereon for connecting
to corresponding threads (or other mechanical feature) on a lid
component, a shroud component or a collar component; (d) forming a
lid component having an internal or external set of threads (or
other mechanical feature) thereon for connecting to corresponding
threads on a container; (e) forming a shroud component having an
internal or external set of threads (or other mechanical feature)
thereon for connecting to corresponding threads on a container; (f)
filling the collapsible liner or collapsible liner component with
one or more liquids; (g) connecting an air hose to the container;
(h) connecting the liquid supply assembly and/or air hose to a
spraying device; (i) supplying air to the liquid supply assembly;
(j) regulating the container pressure of the pressurized liquid
supply assembly; and (k) spraying a liquid from the spraying
device.
III. Methods of Using Liquid Supply Assemblies
[0083] Also disclosed are methods of using the above-described
liquid supply assemblies to apply a liquid onto a substrate. The
above-described liquid supply assemblies, while suitable for use
with any type of spraying device, are particularly useful on
pressure-fed spraying devices, such as exemplary spraying device 70
shown in FIGS. 7-8, as well as similar commercially available
pressure-fed spraying devices.
[0084] Spraying devices are commercially available from a number of
sources including, but not limited to, BINKS.RTM. and DEVILBISS.TM.
products commercially available from ITW Industrial Finishing, Inc.
(Glendale Heights, Ill.); spraying devices commercially available
from Graco Inc. (Minneapolis, Minn.); spraying devices commercially
available from Sharpe Manufacturing Company (Minneapolis, Minn.);
and spraying devices commercially available from Accuspray
(Cleveland, Ohio). Exemplary commercially available spraying device
include BINKS.RTM. Mach 1 HVLP Pressure Feed Systems, DEVILBISS.TM.
JGA Pressure Feed OutFits, Graco HVLP Spray Gun and Pressure Cup
Assemblies, Sharpe 998 HVLP Pressure Feed Systems and Accuspray
HVLP Spray Turbines. In one embodiment of the present invention,
the liquid supply components and/or assemblies of the present
invention are combined with a BINKS.RTM. Mach 1 HVLP Pressure Feed
System.
[0085] As shown in FIG. 7, exemplary liquid supply assembly 10 may
be attached to exemplary spraying device 70 via adapter 134.
Adapter 134 fits over cylindrical portion 24 of lid 11 and engages
with opposed inwardly projecting lips 52 on the distal ends of
projecting hook members 49 of lid 11. A more detailed view of
adapter 134 and the connection between exemplary liquid supply and
filter assembly 10 and exemplary spraying device 70 is provided in
FIG. 9 described below.
[0086] FIG. 7 depicts one embodiment of the present invention,
wherein exemplary liquid supply assembly 10 is attached to
exemplary spraying device 70 via adapter 134. Air is supplied to
container 12 via air hose 71 attached to air inlet 31. In this
embodiment, air is supplied to container 12 via air hose 71, which
is attached to an air supply fitting 72 located on spraying device
70. An air source (not shown) is attached to air hose 73 to provide
air to spraying device 70, and subsequently to container 12 once
trigger of spraying device 70 is engaged.
[0087] FIG. 8 depicts another embodiment of the present invention,
wherein exemplary liquid supply assembly 10 is attached to
exemplary spraying device 70 via adapter 134. In this embodiment,
air is also supplied to container 12 via air hose 71 attached to
air inlet 31; however, air is supplied to container 12 via air hose
71 containing regulator 75 therein, which is attached to an air
supply fitting 76 located between an air supply (not shown) and
spraying device 70. An air source (not shown) is attached to air
hose 73 to provide air to (i) spraying device 70 and (ii) through
regulator 75 to container 12 thereby allowing control of air
pressure (i.e., container pressure) within container 12.
[0088] As shown in FIG. 9, exemplary adapter 134 comprises first
and second spaced end portions 36 and 38, and has a through opening
88 extending through end portions 36 and 38. First end portion 36
of adapter 134 has internal threads (not shown) and six flattened
wrench engagable surface portions 42 around a periphery of adapter
134 near first end portion 36 such that adapter 134 is releasably
engagable with external threads on an inlet port 81 of spraying
device 70. Lid 11 and second end portion 38 of adapter 134 have
connector parts that are adapted for forming a releasable liquid
tight engagement so that through opening 91 (through lid 11) and
opening 88 (through adapter 134) are in communication with one
another.
[0089] When engaged, cylindrical portion 24 of lid 11 with sealing
rings 43 is in liquid tight engagement with inner surface 444 of
adapter 134. Further, end surface 46 on adapter collar 145
surrounding second end portion 38 of adapter 134 abuts boss 47 of
lid 11 around cylindrical portion 24. Adapter collar 145 has major
cylindrically concave recesses 148 along opposite sides adapted to
pass distal ends of hook members 49 projecting from outer surface
22 of lid 11 on opposite sides of cylindrical portion 24 when
cylindrical portion 24 is pressed axially into opening 88 of
adapter 134. At this point, lid 11 and adapter 134 are in a first
relative position in which hook members 49 are aligned with major
recesses 148 in adapter collar 145. Lid 11 and adapter 134 can then
be rotated relative to each other to a second relative position to
cause the resiliently flexible projecting hook members 49 to move
around and locate into minor concave recesses 51. In this second
relative position, projecting hook members 49 are positioned in
minor cylindrically concave recesses 51 in adapter collar 145 while
opposed inwardly projecting lips 52 on distal ends of projecting
hook members 49 are engaged over a surface 53 of adapter collar 145
adjacent second end 38 of adapter 134.
[0090] Adapter 134 may be formed from any suitable material, for
example, a polymeric or metallic material. In one exemplary
embodiment, adapter 134 is formed from a metallic material (e.g.,
stainless steel).
[0091] As shown in FIG. 9, exemplary shroud component 60 is
positioned between lid component 11 and adapter 134. Shroud opening
62 is sized so that adapter 134 may be positioned within shroud
opening 62 and engage with lid 11 as discussed above. Further,
shroud component 60 may be designed so that one or more components
on an upper surface of shroud component 60 (e.g., opposed inwardly
projecting lips 152 and projecting hook members 149) also engage
with adapter 134.
[0092] Prior to beginning the above-described connection steps or
after partial completion of the above-described connection steps, a
user may first mix one or more liquids in liner 13 outside of or
positioned within container 12, using indicia 25 to indicate the
levels to which each liquid should be sequentially poured into
liner 13 to achieve a desired ratio between the one or more
liquids. Any indicia 25 may be used on container 12 to assist a
user when measuring one or more liquids. In one embodiment of the
present invention, an indicating sheet having indicia thereon is
used to assist a user when measuring one or more liquids. Such an
indicating sheet is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,588,681 (Rothrum
et al.) (i.e., indicating sheet 24 having indicia 25 thereon as
shown in FIG. 1 of U.S. Pat. No. 6,588,681), the subject matter of
which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference. In this
embodiment, the indicating sheet may be positioned within container
12 so that a lower edge of the indicating sheet rests on an upper
surface of air distribution fins 34 and rest members 340 (see FIG.
3).
[0093] Typically, one or more liquids are poured into liner 13
described above. Liner 13 may be filled prior to or after being
positioned within container 12. After filling liner 13 to a desired
level, lid component 11 is engaged with liner 13. Optionally, a
gasket may be used between lid component 11 and liner 13 as
discussed above. Once lid component 11 is engaged with liner 13,
shroud 60 is positioned over lid component 11. Shroud 60 or collar
20 is screwed onto container 12 as described above to secure shroud
60, lid component 11 and liner 13 to container 12. Once the liquid
supply assembly is assembled, the liquid supply assembly may be
connected to a spraying device as described above.
[0094] After connecting the liquid supply assembly of the present
invention to a spraying device, the spraying device is ready for
use. Air pressure applies force against liner 13, feeding the one
or more liquids in liner 13 into spraying device 70. It is believed
that air distribution fins 34 along an upper surface 35 of bottom
wall 44 within container 12 provide improved air flow and
distribution along upper surface 35 of bottom wall 44. The
resulting air flow and distribution along bottom wall 44 of
container 12 causes a more uniformly applied force on the lower
surface of collapsible liner 13 positioned within container 12.
[0095] As discussed above, the liquid supply assemblies of the
present invention may be used in combination with a spraying device
in a pressurized system, wherein the container pressure of the
system is at least about 69.0 kPa (10 psi). Typically, the
container pressure of the system ranges from about 34.5 kPa (5 psi)
to about 206.8 kPa (30 psi), more typically from about 69.0 kPa (10
psi) to about 137.9 kPa (20 psi). However, in some embodiments, the
container pressure of the system may be above about 137.9 kPa (20
psi).
[0096] When a given spray job is completed, spraying device 70 with
exemplary liquid supply assembly 10 may be placed on a level
surface to remain upright in a vertical position so that any
remaining liquid in liner 13 is not in contact with lid component
11. In this position, the connector components can be
disconnected.
[0097] While the specification has been described in detail with
respect to specific embodiments thereof, it will be appreciated
that those skilled in the art, upon attaining an understanding of
the foregoing, may readily conceive of alterations to, variations
of, and equivalents to these embodiments. Accordingly, the scope of
the present invention should be assessed as that of the appended
claims and any equivalents thereto.
* * * * *